The Ukrainian General Staff reported that the second cohort of Ukrainian artillery personnel has finished a training cycle in the United Kingdom focused on operating the AS90 self-propelled 155 mm howitzers. The agency shared the update via social media channels, underscoring the practical skills gained during these sessions.
Officials stated, “The second group of Ukrainian artillery crews is completing their instruction on 155 mm AS90 self-propelled guns.” The message framed the training as an element of the United Kingdom’s ongoing support for Ukraine amid the conflict.
Industry observers had noted earlier that the British Ministry of Defence planned to ensure within a year that medium-range, ground-fired artillery from the British Army would supplement the supply of 155 mm AS90 systems to Ukrainian forces. This step would help bridge gaps caused by ongoing combat needs and sustain artillery capacity on the battlefield.
Previously, the British military faced a temporary gap in its own defense stock after transferring several AS90s to Ukraine. It has been reported that the United Kingdom donated 30 AS90 self-propelled guns and is actively seeking spare parts to restore and replenish its own reserves. In parallel, the British Ministry of Defence has been pursuing new procurement channels, including contracts for the K9 Thunder and Archer self-propelled gun systems, to diversify and strengthen its artillery toolkit. (Attribution: British Ministry of Defence)